Shady Walnut Farm

Shady Walnut Farm, an attractive setting in the south half of Oxford County Ontario has been home to the Bertrand family since 1923. The first pure bred Ayrshires were purchased by Aubrey and Wayne's father Carl about 20 years later. The cow that has contributed the most points to the prestigious Master Breeder Award is Shady Walnut Constance, a Cornelius daughter from a Blue Bell's Triumph dam. It has often been said that the test of a great breeder is passed when one develops bulls that contribute to breed improvement. Shady Walnut Conn has done just that with high producing daughters and a good number making the show ring. The herd has been highly influenced over the years by Blackaddar blood lines. The Bertrand family is well known for being generous hosts at annual meetings with their banquet-like settings provided at a price an Ayrshire member appreciates. They are probably the only dairymen of any breed in Canada that have their own personal golf course. A splendid, well manicured, seven hole course right on their home farm. If there is ever an event called the Ayrshire Open we are certain the Bertrand brothers would carry the same level of handicap as golfing icons McKell and Descoteaux. For many years they have hosted a community “Syrup and Pancake Day”, when over 300 people attend every year to sample their maple syrup which they take great pride in producing. As Wayne and Aubrey are now exiting the dairy business, they will have more time to devote to their hobby of restoring antique tractors and horse drawn vehicles. Ayrshire Canada congratulates Shady Walnut on their Master Breeder Award and is most appreciative for their contribution to the breed.